As we reflect on the past year, a curated list of exceptional long-form stories emerges. These narratives explore complex subjects ranging from political intrigue and scientific revelations to deeply personal stories.
The Mysterious Author and the Conscience of a Country
A certain Russian novelist became known in the 1990s with scathing critiques on authoritarianism. While several of his literary contemporaries have faced censorship or fled the country, he still sell millions of copies. It prompts a pertinent question: Has he evolved into an apologist for the establishment?
Survival and Complicity in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The account of a young man, who at eighteen was informed that his sole route out of prison was to enlist in the government forces. After fourteen years, his former role as one of Assad's fighters could still put him in mortal danger.
The Acrimonious Argument Over Our Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was hailed as radically changing the narrative of our species. Yet, a faction was convinced. The resulting bitter controversy has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
A British Sect That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was only a young girl when her household became part of the a religious community. As an adult, she played a key role in expose the appalling extent of exploitation it had perpetrated.
A Leader's Unexpected Stance on Human Rights
Many voters anticipated that the former human rights lawyer would reaffirm the UK's dedication to international law. However, the record over the first year in office has been notably mixed.
Challenging a Country's Identity
A film tracking a repentant master criminal as she ensnares unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras poses complex queries: Is this person genuinely changed, and is the filmmaker's true intentions?
The Man Who Decontaminates the UK's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has encountered – and cleaned – everything. In their most challenging hours, people depend on him to restore peace.
Will an Renowned Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Beset by colonial controversy, strained finances and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it restore its standing?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Agony of Extreme Condition
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this illness has long been without an consistent medical remedy – up until possibly now.
A Ghost of Extremism in Modern Politics
A militant extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his teachings influence the very highest echelons of the state.
An British Professional With a Dishonest Secret
With his brilliant intellect and flawless credentials, it's understandable that affluent individuals entrusted him with their assets. Until they began to get wary.
The Small State That Became the Global Diplomatic Capital
An extremely wealthy Gulf state has become a major player on the international scene, working to mediate some of the most intractable disputes. What are behind this ambitious project?
A Close-Up Look at a Leader Preparing for Global Battle
Extremely unpopular at domestically, President Macron enjoys the world arena, where he projects himself as the leader most equipped to handle a certain former American leader. Seven years after their last meeting, a writer accompanied him as he prepared for the fray.
During the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her partner, charged with killing their two-week-old baby?
An End of a Major Development Agency: Not Universal Regret
When efforts were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were shocked. But on the ground in a West African nation, this most recent letdown was not unexpected.
A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on Indian Women
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was widespread shock. But the exact nature of the procedures is still partially unclear.
A "Mozart" of the Online Age
He's endured 24 hours in slime, 48 hours buried alive – and distributed huge sums of money to lucky contestants. But are these videos simply very clever clickbait – or works of daring genius?
Life in a Country Endangered by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the possibility that their homeland may soon cease to exist. The urgent question is: Where are they supposed to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Case of Childhood Homelessness
As I encountered Craig he was thirteen and homeless. I still thought his life could improve. That hope was tragically wrong.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he might hold the key to who wins the global technological rivalry.
The best stories
